Cyclists and support crew needed for first SA Ride for Sick Kids

Ronald McDonald House Adelaide is looking to secure 25 fit cyclists and a team of dedicated and motivated support crew to take part in the inaugural SA Ride for Sick Kids.

The ride, which is being held from October 26 – November 1, will cover 1,029 kilometres, starting in Port Lincoln and taking in some of the most remote, picturesque and at times challenging parts of South Australia.

It will pass through the major towns in the Upper Spencer Gulf as the riders snake their way up to Port Augusta and then travel south through to the Barossa Valley and into Adelaide.

The ride ends at Ronald McDonald House Adelaide in Melbourne Street with a celebration for the riders and some of the families who will benefit from the fundraising.

Riders will each be asked to raise $6,800 for the House to reach its $100,000 fundraising target.

The ride will also be used to educate and inform regional communities in South Australia about the work of Ronald McDonald House Charities with school talks and nightly community events planned along the route.

Ronald McDonald Adelaide House Executive Officer Nickie Barlow said South Australia has a committed cycling community so we’re hoping there will be plenty of willing riders keen to support families whose children are receiving treatment at the Women’s and Children’s Hospital.

“Staying at the House reduces the stress and financial burden for families travelling to Adelaide with their children for treatment and gives them immediate access to a support network.

“The House relies on community support and fundraising in order to provide accommodation and support services to hundreds of families every year.

“It’s hoped the ride will become an annual event and provide a significant financial boost as we turn our attention to refurbishing the original House.”

Last year, Ronald McDonald House Adelaide doubled its capacity to twenty rooms by opening a new House opposite the old original one in Melbourne Street.

Plans are now underway to refurbish the original House by upgrading the rooms and common areas while minimising any disruption to families.

Expressions of interest are currently being sought from riders for the first ever SA Ride for Sick Kids.

Riders will be given the full support of an on road support crew including bike mechanic, first aider and massage therapist. Accommodation and meals will be provided to ensure riders are well rested and fuelled up for the long days of riding ahead.

Each rider will be given 2 rider jerseys and knicks and a vest for the ride. They will also receive shirts and a jacket for the community events. A luggage bag will also be provided.

Anyone interested in taking part in the RMHC SA Ride for Sick Kids should contact Bade Stapleton on 0407 114 439 or bade@connectsport.com.au

Alternatively, download a SA Ride for Sick Kids Information Pack and expression of interest form www.sarideforsickkids.com.au

For further information, please contact:
Simon Hatcher
Hughes Public Relations
Telephone – 08 8412 4100
Email – simon@hughespr.com.au